Propagation Characteristics of Higher-Order Annular Gaussian Beams in Oceanic Turbulence

Abstract

This study aims to explore the propagation characteristics of higher-order annular Gaussian (HOAG) beams in oceanic turbulence. We provide an analytical derivation of the average intensity at the receiver plane based on excitation from a HOAG source field. Additionally, we conduct a detailed analyses of various beam intensity moments including kurtosis parameter, power-in-the-bucket (PIB) and the beam size variation. As oceanic turbulence strength increases, the HOAG beam gradually transforms into a pure Gaussian beam. As the strength of turbulence increases, PIB values for all modes of HOAG beams gradually decrease in an exponential manner until they stabilize, exhibiting behavior similar to that of Gaussian beams. It is also observed that modes of HOAG beams having larger mode numbers carry less energy to the receiver compared to lower-order modes as turbulence strength increases. Analyses of the kurtosis parameter for HOAG beams indicate that during propagation over intermediate distances, there is a tendency for more beam energy to be distributed toward the wings rather than to the center. In contrast, at longer distances, the beam redistributes its energy, resulting in a lower energy concentration in the wings compared to the center. This research can enhance our understanding of the effects of higher-order laser beams, thereby potentially facilitating longer communication distances in underwater wireless optical communication technologies. © 2025 IOP Publishing Ltd.